Reflections (at different times) on ecumenical or interfaith issues, theology, spirituality, ministry, the arts, politics, popular culture, or life in general ... occasionally, just some funny stuff.

Wednesday, 3 July 2013

In defense of politicians

Right. Here goes.I think we've all been much too hard on politicians.There, I've said it. I'll say it again. I think we've all been much too hard on politicians.Like the rest of us, politicians are flawed human beings.

A few politicians are unreasonably extreme in their views. (A bit like the rest of us, really.) And we've seen many examples of this lately.

A few politicians get unreasonably aggressive with each other. (A bit like the way some non-politicians behave in their workplaces.) And we've seen many examples of this lately.

A few politicians become corrupt in the course of their political careers (but not very many, really.)

In my experience, I've met many politicians, at a variety of levels, from a variety of perspectives, in a number of different nations.

Some have views and policies with which I agree, and values which I sometimes find inspiring.

Some have views and policies with which I disagree, and values which I sometimes find frightening.

But the politicians I have had the privilege to know have this in common: they are decent, honest, intelligent, generous people with a work ethic that is exceeded only by their ethic of service to the wider community.Politician-bashing is a popular activity in Australia as it is in other western countries. For those who enjoy politician-bashing, may I pose this question?Which would you prefer? To be governed by a group of politicians over whom you have the occasional power of choice (through regular, orderly elections)? Or to be ruled over by a cabal of generals over whom you have no choice?As for me, I'd choose the politicians over the generals any day.

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Constructive comments, from a diversity of viewpoints, are always welcome. I reserve the right to choose which comments will be printed. I'm happy to post opinions differing from mine. Courtesy, an ecumenical attitude, and a willingness to give your name always help. A sense of humour is a definite "plus", as well.

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About Me

I grew up in the United States and have lived in Australia since 1980. I'm a retired (recycled?) minister in the Uniting Church in Australia. At various times, I've been a parish minister, ecumenical staffer, and hospital chaplain. Some of my interests include theology, liturgy, ecumenism, interfaith relations, history, politics, the arts, humour, and Christmas in popular culture. (I did my doctorate on Advent and Christmas as a "season of opportunity" for churches to relate to their communities.)